Refuse collecting device

TLDR: In this paper, an improved device for collecting refuse by using a fixed holding member and moveable expander to releasably hold a bag open by virtue of tension forces exerted across the mouth of the bag.

Abstract: An improved device for collecting refuse by using a fixed holding member and moveable expander to releasably hold a bag open by virtue of tension forces exerted across the mouth of the bag. A paddle, spring-loaded to a closed position across the mouth, can also be hingedly rotated to an open position and held in the open position by a trigger. When an animal owner desires to have the paddle scoop refuse into the bag, he can manually move the trigger. This action releases the spring-biased paddle which then rotates under spring bias, scooping refuse before it, to the closed position. The scooped refuse, because of the propelling movement of the paddle's rotation, is thrown on into the bag. A moving mechanism, which is also spring-biased, can both cock the paddle in the open position and also release the bag. As the moving mechanism pulls the paddle toward the open position, a latch pin connected through a cable to the paddle is caught and held by the trigger. The moving mechanism can then return to its normal resting position under the action of spring bias, while the paddle remains in the caught, cocked position. When it is desired to release the paddle, the trigger is manually depressed and the paddle returns under spring-bias to its normally closed position.